APPLICATIONS OPEN SEPTEMBER 1 - OCTOBER 31!

Find the application here: https://bit.ly/WSPLTeenMiniGrant2025

Program Overview: WSPL is offering up to two (2) grants to local teens to produce library-based programs, geared to youth ages 12 and up. Applicants are encouraged to propose programs that will engage and inspire their peers in one of five enrichment categories: Literacy, Arts, STEAM, Wellness or Community Building.

Programs must take place at one of the three WSPL branches (Jeffersonville, Callicoon or Narrowsburg), and can be either one-off events, workshops with multiple meetings, or ongoing clubs that meet on a regular basis.

Winners will receive a $100 stipend, plus a budget for program supplies (up to $200). Winning programs will be overseen by the WSPL Youth Programs Coordinator, who will assist grantees with planning, implementing, and promoting their programs.

Application Deadline: October 31, 2025 at 11:59PM  

Applicant Eligibility:

• Applicants must be 14-18 years of age and possess a valid WSPL library card.
• Applicants may choose to submit as a team (no more than 4 per team). 
• Please designate one team leader to fill out the application. 
• All team members must submit a letter of recommendation to be eligible for the $100 stipend, which will be divided evenly amongst team members. 

Program Types:

• One-off Events: Single events must take place no later than October 31, 2026. (Example: Alt-Prom, Karaoke Night, Chess Tournament, Teen Movie Night, Read-a-thon, etc.) 
• Workshops: Workshops with multiple meetings must meet no fewer than three (3) times and must conclude by October 31, 2026. Workshops must also include a public showcase of the work produced. 
• Clubs: Clubs must plan to meet weekly, bi-weekly or monthly, and should have a designated adult sponsor (can be a teacher, family member, or community member over the age of 18). The first meeting should take place no later than January 1, 2026, and organizers must commit to a minimum of 12 sessions. 

Enrichment Categories:

• Literacy: Programs that promote the appreciation for and develop skills related to the written word, either through analysis, creation, or celebration.
• Arts: Programs that promote the appreciation for and develop skills related to the arts (visual or performance), either through analysis, creation, or celebration.
• STEAM: Programs that promote appreciation for and develop skills related to Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and/or Math.
• Wellness: Programs that promote social, emotional and/or physical wellness.
• Community Building: Programs that encourage social connections, community service, and/or intergenerational engagement. 

Application Requirements:

• Completed application form
• Program budget sheet
• 1 letter of recommendation from a teacher, employer, volunteer supervisor or club leader (e.g. 4-H, FFA, National Honors Society, Scouts, etc)

Find the application here: https://bit.ly/WSPLTeenMiniGrant2025